Worcestershire Trading Standards urge residents to shop smart and beat the scammers

As shoppers head onto the high street or the web in search of deals, Trading Standards is urging everyone to stay alert. 

Head of Worcestershire Regulatory Services, Simon Wilkes said: “January Sales can be an opportunity to save money, but scammers and counterfeiters are waiting to take advantage. By following these simple tips, especially while shopping online, residents can shop smart, stay safe and enjoy the bargains with confidence.”

Online shoppers are advised to: 

• stick to reputable businesses or check for a UK address and phone number on the website to ensure compliance with UK distance selling rules
• avoid paying by bank transfer; instead, use secure payment methods like credit cards, which provide added protection for purchases over £100.
• look for a padlock symbol and ‘https://’ in the website address for secure transactions
• research thoroughly before making significant purchases or investments, and avoid being rushed into decisions

Parcel delivery scams are another growing threat. Fraudsters send fake delivery notifications designed to trick people into calling premium-rate numbers or handing over personal information. Residents are urged to ignore suspicious cards and contact PhonepayPlus on 0800 500 212 if in doubt.

Counterfeit goods remain a serious problem. Cheap items sold at car boot sales, through online auctions or on social media may look like bargains but are often fake, unsafe and linked to organised crime. Trading Standards is warning residents to avoid these traps and stick to trusted retailers. If its too good to be true, don’t buy!

Knowing your rights is equally important. In most cases, only the buyer can return gifts unless the retailer offers an extended policy, so it pays to check before purchasing. Faulty or misdescribed goods can be returned within 30 days, but after this period the consumer must prove the fault. For online purchases, distance selling rules allow refunds up to 14 days after delivery for non-bespoke items. Always keep receipts or proof of purchase to simplify returns, and act quickly if issues arise.

Finally, don’t be lured into buying just because the price looks low. Sometimes, claims of price reductions may not be all that they seem. Think before buying – is this something I really want or need? 

For further advice, visit the Worcestershire Trading Standards website. If you have concerns about items you have bought or received and would like guidance on consumer rights, please call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 11 33.